Methods and Apparatuses for Applying Eyelash Extensions

ABSTRACT

An applicator for use with an eyelash extension system that has a backbone and a backbone surface configured to be joined with a closure surface. A plurality of eyelash extensions are attached to the backbone. The applicator includes a frame having a first end and a second end spaced laterally from the first end, a rail attached to the frame and extending laterally between the first and second ends, and a cam. The cam has a cam surface configured to contact the backbone of the eyelash extension system to urge the backbone to come into contact with the closure as the cam is moved laterally along the rail.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to the application of eyelash extensions,and in particular to apparatuses for applying a plurality of eyelashextensions as a group.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Many people are dissatisfied with the look of their eyelashes. Theywould prefer lashes with better curl, color, fullness, length, etc.While cosmetic products, such as mascara, are available to improve thesecharacteristics, certain people still would prefer even greaterenhancements than are possible through their use of mascara alone.

False eyelashes have been around and in use for quite some time. Falseeyelashes are applied to the eyelid, and may improve the appearance ofthe wearer by making it appear that the wearer has eyelashes of greatercurl, color, fullness, length, etc. However, false eyelashes also maymake it appear that the user has more than one set of eyelashes if theapplication is not performed with a high degree of precision. Obtainingthis degree of precision is a difficult task even for an experienceduser.

Alternatively, one may try eyelash extensions. Unlike false eyelashes,eyelash extensions are applied directly to the eyelash, instead of tothe eyelid. As a consequence, it does not appear as though the user hasmore than one set of eyelashes, but rather longer, curvier, darker,fuller, etc. eyelashes. There are drawbacks with this solution as well.At the present time, eyelash extensions are applied one by one to theexisting eyelashes. As a consequence, the process is labor intensive,requires highly skilled application, and is expensive. Because theprocess is not easily amenable to self-application, the extensions aremost commonly applied in the salon setting, and as the eyelashes fallout, repeated “maintenance” visits may be required. Also, becauseeyelash extensions are applied to existing eyelashes using a one-to-oneratio, if one has problems with eyelash count, extensions do little toimprove the matter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

While the specification concludes with claims particularly pointing outand distinctly claiming the subject matter that is regarded as thepresent invention, it is believed that the invention will be more fullyunderstood from the following description taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings. Some of the figures may have been simplified bythe omission of selected elements for the purpose of more clearlyshowing other elements. Such omissions of elements in some figures arenot necessarily indicative of the presence or absence of particularelements in any of the exemplary embodiments, except as may beexplicitly delineated in the corresponding written description. None ofthe drawings are necessarily to scale.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an eyelash extension system to beapplied to a set of eyelashes;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an eyelash extension applicator to beused with, for example, the eyelash extension system of FIG. 1, theapplicator including a pair of clips;

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an eyelash extension applicator to beused with, for example, the eyelash extension system of FIG. 1, theapplicator including a translating carrier in an open state;

FIG. 3B is a partial, enlarged perspective view of the applicator ofFIG. 3A with the translating carrier in a closed state;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of another eyelash extension system to beapplied to a set of eyelashes, the system being in an open state;

FIG. 4B is a perspective view of the system of FIG. 4A in anintermediate state;

FIG. 4C is a perspective view of the system of FIG. 4A in a closedstate;

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of an eyelash extension applicator to beused with, for example, the eyelash extension system of FIGS. 4A-C, theapplicator including a cam in a first position;

FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the applicator of FIG. 5A with the camin a second position spaced laterally from the first position;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of still another eyelash extension systemto be applied to a set of eyelashes, the system being in an open state;

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of an eyelash extension applicator to beused with, for example, the eyelash extension system of FIG. 6, theapplicator including a tool with an angled, open wedge;

FIG. 7B is a perspective view of the applicator of FIG. 7A with theangled, open wedge in the system so as to space the backbone from theclosure;

FIG. 8 is a plan view of another eyelash extension system to be appliedto a set of eyelashes;

FIG. 9A is a side view of an eyelash extension applicator to be usedwith, for example, the eyelash extension system of FIG. 8, theapplicator including a press in an open state;

FIG. 9B is a side view of the applicator of FIG. 9A with the press in aclosed state;

FIG. 10 is a side view of another eyelash extension applicator to beused with, for example, the eyelash extension system of FIG. 8;

FIG. 11A is a side view of an eyelash extension system in a closedstate;

FIG. 11B is a perspective view of the eyelash extension system of FIG.11A in an open state;

FIG. 12A is a side view of an eyelash extension applicator to be usedwith, for example, the eyelash extension system of FIG. 11A, theapplicator disposed so that the eyelash extension system is in a closedstate;

FIG. 12B is a side view of the applicator of FIG. 12A with theapplicator holding the eyelash extension system in an open state;

FIG. 13A is a partial, cross-sectional view of the eyelash extensionsystem of FIG. 11A in a closed state, with the eyelashes disposedbetween opposing surfaces of the system;

FIG. 13B is a partial, cross-sectional view of the eyelash extensionsystem of FIG. 11A in a closed state, with the box spaced from theeyelashes and the extensions attached to the eyelashes;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an eyelash extension applicatorincluding a light source;

FIG. 15A is a perspective view of an eyelash extension applicatorwherein surfaces of the applicator are mirrored; and

FIG. 15B is a schematic view of the eyelash extension applicator of FIG.15A, in combination with an additional mirrored surface.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The term “attached” refers to elements being connected or united byadhering, fastening, bonding, etc. by any method suitable for theelements being attached together. Many suitable methods for attachingelements together are well-known, including adhesive bonding, mechanicalfastening, etc. Such attachment methods may be used to attach elementstogether over a particular area either continuously or intermittently.

The term “coupled” refers to configurations whereby an element isdirectly secured to another element by attaching the element directly tothe other element, and to configurations whereby an element isindirectly secured to another element by attaching the element tointermediate member(s) that is(are) in turn attached to the otherelement.

The term “disposed” is used to mean that an element(s) exists in aparticular place or position as a unitary structure with other elementsor as a separate element coupled to other elements.

The term “effective diameter” refers to a measurement related to across-section. In regard to a circular cross-section, the effectivediameter is the diameter of the cross-section. For non-circularcross-sections, the effective diameter may be more difficult todescribe. However, one manner in which the effective diameter may becalculated is as the square root of four times the cross-sectional areadivided by pi.

These terms may be defined with additional language in the remainingportions of the specification.

Certain of the figures illustrate different eyelash extension systems,while other figures illustrate different applicators for applying theeyelash extensions, which applicators may be operable with one or moreof the eyelash extension systems illustrated. An attempt has been madeto number similar parts in a similar fashion, although strict adherenceto such a system is not always possible in practice. Moreover, it willbe recognized that while the presentation may discuss particularattributes of these systems and applicators in regard to a particularsystem or applicator, much of the discussion relative to one system isapplicable to the other systems, and discussion relative to oneapplicator or its method of use is applicable to the other applicatorsand their methods of use.

To begin then, FIG. 1 illustrates an eyelash extension system 100including a plurality of eyelash extensions 102 attached to a backbone104 and depending therefrom. The system 100 also includes a closure 106.The backbone 104 has a backbone surface 108, and the closure 106 has aclosure surface 110. The closure 106 has a first state, as illustrated,wherein at least a part of the closure surface 110 is spaced from thebackbone surface 108. As illustrated, the entire closure surface 110 isspaced from the backbone surface 108. The closure 106 also has a secondstate wherein the part of the closure surface 110 abuts the backbonesurface 108 (see FIGS. 2, 3B).

It will be recognized that if a set of eyelashes is placed in the space112 defined between the backbone surface 108 and the closure surface 110with the closure 106 in the first state, at least some of the eyelasheswill be disposed between the surfaces 108, 110 when the closure 106 ismoved from the first state to the second state. The eyelashes disposedbetween the surfaces 108, 110 may be held therebetween by a variety ofdifferent attachment mechanisms. The nature of the attachment betweenthe surfaces 108, 110 may limit the ability to remove the eyelashes frombetween the surfaces 108, 110, as may the interaction of the eyelasheswith either or both of the surfaces 108, 110.

It will be appreciated that there is considerable diversity in thestructure and composition of the eyelash extensions 102, the backbone104, the closure 106, the mechanism used to attach the extensions 102 tothe backbone 104, and the mechanism used to attach the system 100, or apart thereof, to the user's eyelashes. The following is a partiallisting of the potential variations in regard to the extensions 102, thebackbone 104, the closure 106 and attachment mechanisms. This listing isintended to be exemplary and non-limiting. Furthermore, much of thisdiscussion will be generally applicable to the other eyelash extensionsystems described below.

In regard to the extensions 102, the extensions 102 may be made frombiomaterials from animals, including humans, or plants (e.g. cotton). Inparticular, the extensions 102 may be made from keratinous material froman animal, such as eyelashes, although hair, fur, feathers, wool andsilk may be used as well. The extensions 102 may also be made ofsynthetic materials, including nylon, polyester, and the like. Inparticular, synthetic fibers may be particularly well suited for use inthe system 100. Also, the extensions 102 may be made of compositematerials, which provide opportunities to use core/shell or layeredcross-sectional designs to give the extensions 102 unique properties.This approach allows for separation of functionality. For example, onematerial of the composite can be chosen for its structural properties,and additional materials of the composite may be chosen for desirablephase transition, electromagnetic, surface energy, light refractivity,or other value-added properties.

The shape, color, effective diameter, length, curvature, and density ofthe extensions 102 may vary. The variation may be between extensionsincluded in one system and those included in another system. However,the variations may be between individual extensions included in oneparticular system, or even within one individual lash extension in oneparticular system. For example, multiple lengths may be used in one itemof a particular system, for example.

As to the shape, the extensions 102 may have a generally circular, solidcross-section, and may be tapered from one end of the extension 102 tothe other. However, it is also possible for the extensions 102 to have anon-circular cross-section, such as an elliptical cross-section.Alternatively, the cross-section may be a polygon, such as triangle,rectangle, etc., or more complex shape, such as a cross, a crescent or astar. Further cross-sections of interest may effectively appear flat,such that the dimensions in one axis are at least 15 times those of thesecond axis. It is also possible for the cross-section to be hollow ortubular, instead of solid. Further, the extension 102 may have a nearlyconstant effective diameter from one end of the extension 102 to theother, or the effective diameter may vary in some fashion other than ataper.

Additionally, it is desirable to allow for multiple colors andgoniometric properties of extensions which are applied to one set oflashes.

As to the effective diameter, a convention may be adopted where thischaracteristic is discussed relative to an effective diameter at aparticular point along an extension, a maximum effective diameter of anextension, or an average of the effective diameters taken at a pluralityof points along an extension, for example. Regardless of the conventionadopted, a wide range of diameters may be used. For example, theextensions 102 may have an average effective diameter in the range ofbetween about 0.01 mm and about 2.0 mm. According to other embodiments,the extensions 102 may have an average effective diameter in the rangeof between about 0.03 mm and about 1.0 mm. According to certainembodiments, the extensions 102 may have an average effective diameterin the range of between about 0.03 mm and about 0.70 mm.

As to the length (measured from end to end), a wide range of lengths mayalso be used. For example, the extensions 102 may have a length in therange of between about 1.0 mm and about 30.0 mm. According to otherembodiments, the extensions 102 may have a length in the range ofbetween about 2.0 mm and about 20.0 mm. According to certainembodiments, the extensions 102 may have a length in the range ofbetween about 3.0 mm and about 15.0 mm.

As to the angle of curvature, there may also be a variety of conventionsby which this is defined. As an example, one may discuss the angle ofcurvature in terms of the angle that is formed by the intersection oflines tangential to the ends of the extension. Again, a wide range maybe used. For example, the extensions 102 may have an angle of curvaturein the range of between about 3 and about 180 degrees. According toother embodiments, the extensions 102 may have an angle in the range ofbetween about 30 and about 170 degrees. According to certainembodiments, the extensions 102 may have an angle in the range ofbetween about 45 and about 160 degrees.

In regard to the backbone 104 and the closure 106, either may be in theform of a thin strip, fiber, etc. of material. Similar to the extensions102, the backbone 104 and the closure 106 may be made of a biomaterialor a synthetic material. In fact, the backbone 104 and/or the closure106 may be made of a material such that, after attachment of theextensions 102 to the user's eyelashes, the backbone 104 and/or theclosure 106 may be dissolved or otherwise removed. In one embodiment,the backbone 104 and the closure 106 may be made of a water-solublematerial, while the extensions 102 and an adhesive applied thereto toattach the extensions 102 to the eyelashes may be water-insoluble. Forinstance, after the backbone 104 and the closure 106 are used to placethe extensions 102 relative to the eyelashes so that the extensions 102may attach themselves to the eyelashes, water is applied to remove(dissolve) the backbone 104 and the closure 106. According to otherembodiments, the backbone 104 and the closure 106 may be made of a moredurable material, such that the backbone 104 and the closure 106 do notdissolve or otherwise disappear during normal use conditions.

The length of the backbone 104 and the closure 106, as manufactured, mayvary according to the present disclosure. For example, the backbone 104and the closure 106 may be manufactured in a length designed to providecoverage for users having an average eyelid length. Alternatively, thebackbone 104 and closure 106 may be manufactured in lengths that areintended to be cut and/or trimmed by the user to be the exact length toprovide a desired coverage, which may or may not coincide with thelength of the user's eyelid. As a further alternative, the backbone 104and the closure 106 may be manufactured in lengths shorter than would beexpected to permit coverage from one end of an eyelid to the other.According to such an embodiment, two, three or more lengths of backbone104 and closure 106 may be used to provide coverage for a single eyelidand associated eyelashes.

As to the density of the extensions, a large range of densities may beappropriate. Provided that the extensions 102 are attached to a backbone104, the linear density of the individual extensions across the backboneis preferably about 5-150 extensions per linear cm of backbone. Morepreferably, the linear density of the extensions 102 is about 10-100extensions per linear cm of backbone 104.

The mechanism of attachment between the extensions 102 and backbone 104may vary according to the nature of the extensions 102 and the backbone104, and the thickness of the backbone 104. For instance, if thethickness of the backbone 104 is sufficient, the extensions 102 may bedisposed or embedded at least partially within the backbone 104. Thismay be achieved, for example, by molding the backbone 104 about ends ofthe extensions 102. Alternatively, if the thickness of the backbone 104is not substantially greater than the effective diameter of theextensions 102, the extensions 102 may be attached to a surface of thebackbone 104 using an adhesive compatible with the materials used toform the extensions 102 and the backbone 104. Still another means ofattaching the extensions 102 to the backbone 104 is through a knot orbraid. Additionally, for synthetic extensions 102 or backbones 104 ameans of spot welding may be particularly effective through the use ofheat or other means of creating a phase transformation with or withoutthe use of pressure

The mechanism of attachment between the eyelash extension system 100, ora part thereof, and the user's eyelashes may also vary. As mentionedabove, an adhesive may be used. The adhesive may attach the surfaces108, 110 together, thereby limiting removal of the eyelashes frombetween the surfaces 108, 110. The adhesive applied to one or both ofthe surfaces 108, 110 may also attach the eyelashes to one or both ofthe surfaces 108, 110, thereby further limiting removal of the eyelashesfrom between the surfaces 108, 110. Alternatively, the adhesive may beselected so as to attach the surfaces 108, 110 without attaching theeyelashes to either of the surfaces 108, 110. The selection of theadhesive may thus be influenced by the material used for the extensions102, the backbone 104 and/or the closure 106, as well as the eyelashes.In this regard, it should be noted that the extensions 102, whileintended for use with natural eyelashes as a replacement for falseeyelashes, may be used with artificial eyelashes as well.

Adhesives may include, as non-limiting examples, latex adhesives,solvent-borne adhesives, pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSAs), and hotmelt adhesives. Use of the latter type will require some degree ofheating to occur at or near the time of application. In an embodimentwherein a two-part adhesive (like epoxy) is used, one component of theadhesive may be applied to one surface 108, 110 and the other componentmay be applied to the other surface 108, 110.

Another alternative may be to use a hook-and-loop attachment mechanism.For example, the hook material may be attached to one of the backbonesurface 108 and the closure surface 110, while the loop material may beattached to the other of the backbone surface 108 and the closuresurface 110. With the surfaces 108, 110 abutting each other, pressureapplied to one or both of the backbone 104 and the closure 106 mayencourage the entanglement of the hooks of the hook material in theloops of the loop material. It will be recognized that the hooks mayinstead be projections terminating in a button-shaped end, and the loopsneed not be closed. Other variations on the hook-and-loop attachmentmechanisms will also be recognized as applicable to this embodiment.

Additionally, phase transition materials may be used as a mechanism ofattachment. These phase change materials may transition between a fluidstate and a solid or semi-solid state, wherein the fluid state may havevarying degrees of viscosity. For instance, the material may be a wax,such as may be formed of fatty materials or synthetic hydrocarbons. Insuch a case, a wax backbone may define the attachment mechanism as well,and may disperse upon application of heat. Alternatively, the materialmay be a gel that swells with contact to fluid. The mechanism to promptthe phase change may also vary, and may include temperature,electromagnetic radiation, moisture, and ultrasonic vibrations. Inregard to electromagnetic radiation, this is not limited to the visiblelight scale, but may include all wavelengths, such as infrared andultraviolet.

As still another alternative, the backbone 104 and the closure 106 maybe coupled to each other by magnetic fields. That is, the backbone 104and the closure 106 may be coupled together, at least in part, by themagnetic force between two objects—such as between two magnets, orbetween a magnet and a material having a medium or higher magneticpermeability, such as iron. According to such an embodiment, thebackbone 104, the closure 106 or both may be made in whole or in part ofthe material providing the magnetic coupling. That is, the backbone 104,for example, need not be made entirely of the material providing themagnetic coupling; instead, the backbone 104 may be made of a plasticmaterial in which is embedded particles of the other material.

FIG. 2 illustrates a first embodiment of an applicator 200 to be usedwith the system of FIG. 1, for example. The applicator 200 includes apair of disposable clips 250, 252. Each of the clips 250 includes afirst arm 254, a second arm 256, and a pivot 258 attached to the firstarm 254 at a first end 260 and the second arm 256 at a second end 262.The pivots 258 may be in the form of a living hinge, as illustrated, ormay have one or more elements. Further more, the pivots 258 may bias thearms 254, 256 relative to one state or another, as explained in greaterdetail below.

Each arm 254, 256 of each clip 250, 252 has a holder attached thereto.That is, the clip 250 includes a first holder 270 attached to the firstarm 254 and attached to a first end 114 of the backbone 104, and asecond holder 272 attached to the second arm 256 and attached to a firstend 118 of the closure 106. Similarly, the clip 252 includes a firstholder 270 attached to the first arm 254 and attached to a second end116 of the backbone 104, and a second holder 272 attached to the secondarm 256 and attached to a second end 120 of the closure 106.

The holders 270, 272 may be releasably attached to the backbone 104 andthe closure 106 such that removal of the clips 250, 252 is possibleafter the clips 250, 252 have been used to position the system 100. Thereleasable attachment mechanism may be in the form of an adhesive with alesser strength than is used to attach the backbone 104 to the closure106, such that the force necessary to disengage the holders 270, 272from the backbone 104 and the closure 106 is less than to disengage thebackbone 104 form the closure 106. However, other attachment mechanismsmay be possible, including mechanical fasteners, such as hook-and-loopby fasteners.

The arms 254, 256 are moveable about the pivots 258 between a firststate, wherein the first and second arms 254, 256 are spaced relative toeach other, and a second state wherein the first and second arms 254,256 abut each other. The movement of the arms 254, 256 between the twostates is illustrated through the inclusion of the pairs of arrows. Asmentioned above, the pivots 258 may bias the arms 254, 256 toward one ofthe two states.

In operation, the arms 254, 256 are attached at their respective holders270, 272 to the backbone 104 and the closure 106. This may be done bythe manufacturer of the system 100, or by the user prior to application.The arms 254, 256 are initially maintained in a spaced relationship toeach other. The applicator 200 is then positioned relative to the user'seyelashes such that the eyelashes depend through the space 112 betweenthe backbone 104 and the closure 106. In this position, one, both orneither of the backbone 104 and the closure 106 may be resting against asurface of the eyelashes.

A force may then be applied to one or both of the arms 254, 256 to movethe arms 254, 256 toward each other to achieve the state illustrated inFIG. 2. With the arms 254, 256 in abutment, at least partially, thebackbone 104 and the closure 106 are brought together with the user'seyelashes supported therebetween. A force may be applied to the backbone104 and the closure 106 to ensure that the backbone 104 and the closure106 are attached to each other, after which a force may be applied tothe arms 254, 256 of the clips 250, 252 to disengage the backbone 104and the closure 106 from the holders 270, 272. The clips may be disposedof immediately, or may be retained for additional uses.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate another applicator 300 which may be used withthe system 100. The applicator 300 includes a frame 340 and a carrier342. The frame 340 has a track 344 attached thereto, which attachmentmay in certain instances include having the track 344 formed integrallywith the frame 340. As illustrated in FIG. 3A, the track 344 includes apair of spaced rails 346. As represented by the arrow in FIG. 3A, thecarrier 342 is moveably mounted to the track 344 for movement along thetrack 344 between a first position, illustrated in FIG. 3A, and a secondposition, illustrated in FIG. 3B. To mount the carrier 342 to the track344, the carrier 342 may have sides that are received in the rails 346,which may have a U-shape, or may have sides that surround, at leastpartially, the tracks 346.

Similar to the clips 250, 252 of the applicator 200 in FIG. 2, theapplicator 300 includes a first holder 370 and a second holder 372. Asillustrated, the first holder 370 is mounted to the frame 340, and thesecond holder 372 is mounted to the carrier 342. Given that the frame340 and the carrier 342 have first and second states wherein the frame340 and the carrier 342 are spaced and then brought together,consequently the holders 370, 372 are spaced apart with the carrier 342in a first position and abut with the carrier 342 in a second position.With the holders 370, 372 being brought together, the backbone 104 andclosure 106 mounted to the holders 370, 372 would also be broughttogether as well.

The holders 370, 372 are intended to releasably attach one of thebackbone 104 and the closure 106. As illustrated, the holder 370 isattached to the backbone 104 and the holder 372 is attached to theclosure 106. It will be recognized that the orientation of theapplicator 300 may be reversed, such that the holder 370 is attached tothe closure 106 and the holder 372 is attached to the backbone 104. Forthat matter, the lower portion of the applicator 300 may define theframe 340 to which the track 346 is attached, and the upper portion ofthe applicator 300 may define the carrier 342. It will also berecognized that rather than applying the force to the lower portion ofthe applicator 300 relative to the upper portion of the applicator 300,the force may be applied to the upper portion of the applicator 300instead.

The applicator 300 may also be used with systems other than the system100 illustrated in FIG. 1. For instance, an alternative system 400 isillustrated in FIGS. 4A-4C, which system 400 may be used in combinationwith the applicator 300.

FIGS. 4A-C illustrate a system 400 including a set of eyelash extensions402 that are attached to a backbone 404. The system 400 also includes aclosure 406. The backbone 404 has a backbone surface 408, and theclosure 406 has a closure surface 410. The surfaces 408, 410 define aspace 412 therebetween for the insertion of a user's eyelashes. Theclosure has a first state (FIG. 4A) wherein the surfaces 408, 410 arespaced, and a second state (FIG. 4C) wherein the surfaces 408, 410 abut.

However, unlike the system 100, the backbone 404 and closure 406 areattached to each other even in the first state. In particular, thestrip-like backbone 404 has opposed, spaced ends 414, 416, and thestrip-like closure 406 has opposed, spaced ends 418, 420. The ends 414,418 are attached together, as are the ends 416, 420. According to oneembodiment, the ends 414, 418 and 416, 420 are in the form of a pair ofliving hinges, although it will be recognized that the backbone 404 andthe closure 406 may be separate pieces that are attached by some othermechanism at the ends 414, 416, 418, 420.

In use, force is applied to the closure 406 to change the concavity ofthe closure surface 410, and in the process move the surfaces 408, 410into abutment. That is, as a tool or finger is applied against or alongthe closure 406, the shape of the closure surface 410 changes fromconcave to convex, with the closure surface 410 moving toward thebackbone surface 408 (which is concave in shape). As the movementcontinues, from FIG. 4A to FIG. 4B to FIG. 4C, eyelashes initiallydisposed in the space 412 between the surfaces 408, 410 become trappedbetween the surfaces 408, 410, with their removal from the space 412being limited as a consequence. It will be recognized that adhesive oranother attachment mechanism may be used as well to further limitremoval of the eyelashes from between the surfaces 408, 410.

It will be recognized that the applicator 300 may provide the necessaryforce to move the backbone 404 and closure 406 relative to each other.That is, the backbone 404 of such a system may be placed in the holder370, while the closure 406 is placed in the holder 372. Upward movementof the carrier 342 relative to the frame 340 would cause the movement ofthe closure 406 relative to the backbone 404. The shape of the carrier342, and the holder 372 in particular, may be modified to assist in theprocess, by having a shape complementary to the backbone surface 408,for example.

Alternatively, the system 400 may be used with an applicator 500 such asis illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B. The applicator is similar to that ofFIGS. 3A and 3B in that it includes a frame 540 and a moveable elementthat is moveably mounted to a track 544 having a rail 546 attached tothe frame 540. Also, the illustrated applicators 300, 500 share anothercommonality in that the moveable element moves in a plane defined by thetrack 344, 544. It will be recognized that this may not be true for allembodiments of the applicator 300, 500. Where the applicators 300, 500differentiate is in regard to the relative motion of the moveableelement to the frame, and in regard to an eyelash extension systemdisposed in a holder attached to the frame.

As seen in FIG. 5A, the applicator 500 includes a cam 548 that ismoveable along the rail 546 in a direction orthogonal to that producedby the applicator 300. That is, the holder 570 has a first end 571 and asecond end 573. The cam 548 moves along the rail 546 between the ends571, 573 of the holder 570, from the first end 571 to the second end573, for example. As the cam 548 moves between the ends 571, 573 of theholder 570, a cam surface 549 of the cam 548 moves relative to theholder 570 to cooperate with a system positioned in the holder 570.

While the cam surface 549 may move with the cam 548 relative to theframe 540, it is also possible that the cam surface 549 moves relativeto the remainder of the cam 548. In regard to the embodimentillustrated, the cam 548 includes a shoe 551 that moves along the rail546 and a pin 553 attached to the shoe 551. A roller 555 is pivotallymounted to the pin 553, and has an outer surface that defines the camsurface 549. As the shoe 551 is moved along track 546, the cam surface549 is caused to move about an axis defined by the pin 553. Thus, thecam surface 549 moves relative to the frame 540 and the remainder of thecam 548.

It will be recognized that by placing a system 400 in the holder 570,the backbone 404 may be advantageously brought into contact with theclosure 406 with a motion that is side to side relative to the system400, rather than up and down. This motion may better ensure that thesurfaces 408, 410 of the backbone 404 and closure 406 are brought intocontact as the cam surface 549 moves relative to the frame 540.

FIG. 6 illustrates another system 600, wherein a backbone 604 andclosure 606 are attached at one end, but not both ends. Rather, thebackbone 604 has ends 614, 616; the closure has ends 618, 620; and onlythe ends 614, 618 are attached. Ends 616, 620 are not attached, and maybe instead initially spaced from each other in the first state of theclosure 606, although the ends 616, 620 may abut in the second state ofthe closure 606. The closure 606 may be maintained in the second statethrough the action of the hinge formed by the attached ends 614, 618, orthe closure 606 may be maintained in the second state through the use ofan adhesive in combination or in substitution for the action of thehinge. The backbone 604 and closure 606 define a space 612 whereineyelashes may be disposed.

Depending on the manner in which the system 600 is initially biased,such a system 600 may be advantageously used with the applicator 500.That is, if the system 600 is initially biased at the ends 614, 618 tohave an open profile, such as is shown in FIG. 6, then use of theapplicator 500 may advantageously be used to close the system 600 as thecam surface 549 moves along the holder 570 in a side-to-side motion.However, it may be preferred to have the system 600 initially biased toa closed profile, and to this end a further applicator 700 isillustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B.

The applicator 700 includes a frame 740 and a tool 780 moveably mountedto the frame for movement relative to the frame 740. It will berecognized that any number of mechanisms may be used to mount the tool780 to the frame 740. As illustrated, however, the tool 780 is mountedon an arm 782 with a first end 784 attached to the tool 780 and a secondend 786 pivotally attached to the frame 740. While the pivotalattachment is in the form of a living hinge 788, as illustrated, it willbe recognized that other multi-part hinges, pivots, and/or linkages maybe used as well. The tool 780 is able to move relative to the frame 740from a first position, illustrated in FIG. 7A, and a second position,illustrated in FIG. 7B.

The frame 740 has a holder 770 mounted thereon. The holder 770 has afirst end 771 and a second end 773 spaced laterally from the first end771. As the tool 780 moves from the position illustrated in FIG. 7A tothat illustrated in FIG. 7B, the tool 780 moves from the first end 771to the second end 773 of the holder 770.

The tool 780 includes a wedge 790. The wedge 790 has a base 792 and asloping angle 794 that are joined by a beam 796. The base 792 and theangle 794 meet in an open point 798, which point is open in thedirections of the base 792 and the angle 794.

In operation, as the tool 780 is moved toward the first end 771 of theholder 770, the wedge 790 contacts a system 600 disposed in the holder770. In particular, the wedge 790 contacts the system 600 at the ends616, 620. Movement of the tool 780 in the direction of the second end773 causes the wedge 790 to separate the backbone 604 relative to theclosure 606, and the backbone 604 to advance along the angle 794. Themotion of the tool 780 stops at the second end 773 of the holder 770, atwhich point the backbone 604 and the closure 606 are sufficiently spacedto permit the user to insert eyelashes into the space adjoining the openpoint 798 (see FIG. 7B). The open point 798 permits the user to positionthe eyelashes as closed to the joined ends 614, 616 of the system 600 asis desired. As the tool 780 is withdrawn toward the first end 771, thebackbone 604 and closure 606 come together, limiting the removal of theeyelashes from between the surfaces 608, 610 of the backbone 604 andclosure 606.

While the foregoing illustrations have featured an eyelash extensionsystem with a backbone and closure, it will be recognized that accordingto certain embodiments of the present disclosure, it is not required tohave both a backbone and a closure. That is, the eyelash extensions maybe releasably attached to a backbone, and transferred with or from thebackbone to the eyelashes without the use of a closure. In fact, it mayeven be possible, according to certain embodiments explained in greaterdetail below, to have a system wherein the eyelashes are not attached toa backbone or closure.

FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of a system 800 including a backbone804, but no closure. Eyelash extensions 802 are attached to the backbone804, and in particular a backbone surface 808, using one of the manymechanisms or methods described above. The mechanism used to attach theextension 802 to the surface 808 may vary in accordance with theintended use of the system 800. That is, if the intent is for thebackbone 804 to adhere to the user's eyelashes, then the extensions 802may be more securely or fixedly attached to the backbone 804. However,according to other embodiments, a similarly formed system 800 may beused to transfer the extensions 802 to the eyelashes without thebackbone 804, in which case the extensions may be releasably attached tothe backbone 804.

The system 800 may also include fittings 801. The fittings 801 are usedto attach the system 800 to an applicator. As explained in greaterdetail below, the system 800 is supported without a structureimmediately or directly beneath the backbone 804 by attaching the system800 via the fittings 801 to the applicator. The system 800 is thussuspended from the fittings 801 like a bridge or hammock.

It will be recognized that while the system 800 includes two suchfittings 801, the system 800 could include other numbers of fittingsaccording to other embodiments of the disclosure. The system 800 couldeven include a single fitting, the system 800 being cantilevered fromthe fitting. The material of the backbone 804 may vary according to thenumber of fittings used, as it will be understood that a system 800 thatis intended to be cantilevered may require a stiffer material than anembodiment that is suspended between two or more fittings.

Two applicators 900, 1000 are illustrated in FIGS. 9A-B and 10 for usewith the system 800, although the applicators illustrated in FIGS. 3A-Band 5A-B could be used as well with the system 500. Both applicators900, 1000 include opposing structures that cooperate with the fittings801 to suspend the system 800 therebetween. However, the applicator 900includes an additional mechanism for applying force to the eyelashes andthe system 800, while the applicator 1000 lacks this mechanism.

Turning first then to the applicator 900, the applicator includes aframe 940 and a moveable press 942. The frame 940 includes a track 944attached thereto, the track 944 including a pair of rails 946. The rails946 may be in the form of one or more rod-like structures having across-section that is complementary to or mates with the cross-sectionof the fittings 801 of the system 800. However, according to otherembodiments, it is possible for the rails 946 to differ in cross-sectionrelative to the fittings 801. Stops 947 may be attached to the rails 946at a relatively equal distance along the rails 946, and define ashoulder 949 against which the system 800, and in particular thebackbone 804 and/or fittings 801 may abut. The movement of the press 942may also be inhibited in a first direction by the stops 947. Instead ofstops 947, the rails 946 may be tapered to inhibit movement of thesystem 800 or the press 942 beyond a certain point in the firstdirection.

To prepare the applicator 900 for use, the press 942 is removed from therails 946, and the system 800 is placed on the track 944 with each ofthe rails 946 being received in one of the fittings 801. The system 800,and in particular the backbone 804, is then advanced in the firstdirection until the backbone 804 and/or fittings 801 abut the stops 947.It will be recognized that with the backbone 804 and/or fittings 801abutting the stops 947, the backbone 804 is suspended above a surface ofthe frame 940, without support immediately or directly beneath thebackbone 804. The press 942 is then replaced on the rails 946, and theapplicator 900 is ready for use.

In use, the applicator 900 is advanced towards the eye with theapplicator 900 in the open state illustrated in FIG. 9A. In this state,the press 942 is spaced from the surface 808 of the backbone 804 suchthat the user may dispose their eyelashes within the space thus formed.The user then places the eyelashes in the space, and brings theeyelashes down against the backbone 804. The press 942 is then advancedalong the track 944 in the first direction to apply a force against thebackbone 804. The force applied by the press 942 to the backbone 804 mayassist in adhering the backbone 804 and/or the eyelash extensions 802 tothe eyelashes.

Depending on the system 800, the eyelash extensions 802 may then beremoved from the applicator, with or without the backbone 804. Forexample, according to certain embodiments, the eyelash extensions 802may be releasably attached to the backbone 804, such that once the press942 is moved in a second direction opposite the first direction, theeyelashes with eyelash extensions 802 may be removed and the backbone804 removed and discarded. According to other embodiments, the backbone804 may also be attached to the eyelashes. According to such anembodiment, the region of the backbone 804 attached to the eyelashes maybe separated from the region of the backbone 804 that includes thefittings 801. For example, the system 800 may be removed from theapplicator 900, and then the fittings 801 may be removed by hand,through the use of a tool, like scissors, or the backbone 804 may beformed with a weakened section or divider, permitting the region of thebackbone 804 including the fittings 801 to be torn off. The weakenedsection may be formed through the use of scoring or perforations, forexample.

Where a weakened section is provided, it may also be possible to definethe shape of the press 942 so that the surface 943 may advance throughthe plane defined by the backbone 804 in the first direction. In doingso, the press 942 may apply a force to the region of the backbonebetween the weakened sections. The force applied via the press 942 may,according to such an embodiment, shear off the regions of the backbone804 including the fittings 801. It will be recognized that if the edgesof the surface 943 are sharpened, it may not be necessary to defineweakened sections on the backbone 804 for the press 942 to separate thedifferent regions of the backbone 804.

FIG. 10 illustrates a variant on the applicator 900. According to theapplicator 1000, no press is included. Instead, the applicator 1000includes a frame 1040 with side pieces 1046 attached. Stops 1047 arepositioned on the side pieces 1046, and the fittings 801 cooperate withthe side pieces 1046 such that the system 800 is suspended between theside pieces 1046. Because a press is not included, the user may have tomanually apply pressure to the eyelashes to ensure proper attachmentbetween the eyelashes and the eyelash extensions 802 and/or the backbone804. Otherwise, the operation of the system (e.g., separation of theeyelash extensions 802 from the backbone 804, or separation of theregions of the backbone 804) is similar to that discussed above relativeto applicator 900.

As noted above, it may even be possible to define an eyelash extensionsystem that does not have the eyelash extensions attached to a backbone.One such system is illustrated in FIGS. 11A and 11B, with an applicatorfor this system illustrated in FIGS. 12A-B and 13A-B.

The system 1100 includes a plurality of eyelash extensions 1102.However, rather than a backbone and closure, the system 1100 includes ahinged box 1101 with a first section 1104 and a second section 1106.

The first section 1104 includes a holder 1105 in which the eyelashextensions 1102 are disposed. The eyelash extensions 1102 may bedisposed in the holder 1105 in a particular orientation, and may bereleasably attached to the holder 1105 in that orientation. However, itmay also be that the eyelash extensions 1102 are not attached to theholder 1105. In fact, the holder 1105 may include a plurality ofgrooves, each of the eyelash extensions 1102 disposed in one of theplurality of grooves.

The second section 1106 includes a strip of adhesive 1107. The strip ofadhesive 1107 is selected to transfer adhesive to the eyelashes and/oreyelash extensions 1102 disposed within the system 1100, and to attachthe eyelashes to the eyelash extensions 1102. To this end, the opposingsurface 1109 of the first section 1104 may be treated with a surfacecoating to prevent the adhesive strip 1107 from securing the twosections 1104, 1106 of the box 1101 together. Alternatively, a releasepaper may be attached to the surface 1109 to limit or prevent adherenceof the two sections 1104, 1106 together.

The system 1100 includes connectors 1111, 1113 that cooperate with theapplicator 1200 illustrated in FIGS. 12A-B and 13A-B to position thesystem 1100 relative to the applicator 1111, 1113. The connectors 1111,1113 may include a variety of mechanisms. As illustrated, the connectors1111, 1113 may be hemispherical knobs that are received in matingstructures of the applicator. A friction fit, for example, may be formedto attach the system 1100 to the applicator 1200. Alternatively, theconnectors 1111, 1113 may simply limit the movement of the system 1100relative to the applicator 1200 without any attachment of the system1100 and the applicator 1200.

Turning now to the applicator 1200 pictured in FIGS. 12A-B, theapplicator 1200 includes a scissor-like frame 1240, with a first leg1241 and a second leg 1243 joined along their length by a pin 1245. Eachleg 1241, 1243 may have a connector 1247, 1249 disposed at one end 1251,1253 of the leg 1241, 1243, and a finger grip 1255, 1257 disposed at theother end 1259, 1261 of the leg 1241, 1243. The connectors 1247, 1249may positively attach the system 1100 to the applicator 1200, or maysimply cooperate to limit the movement of the system 1100 relative tothe applicator 1200. Movement of the finger grips 1255, 1257 towardseach other and away from each other causes movement of the ends 1251,1253, which movement may be transferred to the first and sectionsections 1104, 1106 of the system 1100.

As seen in FIG. 12A, the system 1100 is in a first state with theeyelash extensions 1102 disposed between the first and second sections1104, 1106. The box 1101 may include a latch that keeps the first andsecond sections 1104, 1106 in this first state until the time ofapplication. The system 1100 is positioned relative to the applicator1200 so that the connectors 1111, 1113 may cooperate with the connectors1247, 1249. According to the embodiments illustrated, the connectors1111, 1113, 1247, 1249 form a positive connection, such that movement ofthe ends 1251, 1253 is transferred to the sections 1104, 1106.

As seen in FIG. 12B, the finger grips 1255, 1257 have been moved awayfrom each other, such that the ends 1251, 1253 are further spaced fromeach other than is illustrated in FIG. 12A. The movement of the ends1251, 1253 away from each other causes the section 1106 to move relativeto the section 1104, permitting access to the interior of the box 1101.As is illustrated, the system 1100 may then be advanced toward theeyelashes, so that the eyelashes advance at least as far into the box1101 so as to be disposed between the surfaces 1107, 1109 when thesystem 1100 and applicator 1200 are returned to the state illustrated inFIG. 12A.

FIG. 13A illustrates a top-down view of the system 1100 after the system1100 has been returned to the state illustrated in FIG. 12A. Theeyelashes have been brought into contact with the eyelash extensions1102 and the adhesive strip 1107, thereby attaching the eyelashes to theeyelash extensions 1102. Movement of the system 1100 between the stateillustrated in FIG. 13A to that of FIG. 13B results in the eyelashes andthe attached eyelash extensions 1102 being withdrawn from the box 1101.The box 1101 may be removed from the applicator 1200, and the box 1101may be discarded.

It will be recognized that one or more of the applicators previouslydescribed may benefit from the addition of a device or mechanism forvisualizing the placement of the eyelash extension system relative tothe user's eyelashes. Two such visualization systems are illustrated inFIGS. 14 and 15A-B. These systems are illustrated relative to a systemsimilar to that illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B or 9A and 9B, forexample. However, it will be recognized that the devices and mechanismsof FIGS. 14 and 15A-B may be used with any of the applicators describedherein. Moreover, it will be recognized that the mechanism illustratedin FIG. 14 may be used in conjunction with the mechanism of FIGS. 15Aand 15B.

As illustrated in FIG. 14, the applicator 1400 includes a lower piece1440 and an upper piece 1442. The lower and upper pieces 1440, 1442 areattached using two side pieces 1446. The upper piece 1442 may move alongthe side pieces 1446 between a first state wherein the lower and upperpieces 1440, 1442 are spaced and a second state wherein the lower andupper pieces 1440, 1442 abut, or vice versa. Alternatively, the upperpiece 1442 may be fixedly attached to the side pieces 1446 such thatlimited or no movement occurs between the lower and upper pieces 1440,1442.

Attached to the upper piece 1442 are one or more light sources 1441. Thelight source 1441 directs light in the direction of the lower piece1440, thereby illuminating a section of the eyelash or eyelashextension, as indicated by I in FIG. 14. The illumination of the eyelashand or eyelash extension may provide a visual indication to the userregarding the relative positioning of the applicator 1400 relative tothe user's eyelashes. The visual indication may improve the user'sability to align the eyelashes and the eyelash extensions or applicator1400. Alternatively, the light source may simply be used to increase thevisibility of the eyelashes and the eyelash extension system.

The light source 1441 may be defined by using light emitting diodes, orLEDs, for example, in which case a power source for the light source andswitch to turn the light source 1441 on or off may be included.Alternatively, miniature light bulbs may be used in place of the LEDs.As a further alternative, a chemical light source may be used, whereinthe light source is activated by rupturing a frangible separation ordivider to permit two components to mix, which components, when mixed,provide light via luminescence. Other alternatives will also berecognized.

FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate an applicator 1500 wherein facing surfacesof the applicator 1500 are mirrored, so as to provide a system ofmirrors permitting visualization of the eyelashes and/or eyelashextensions. The applicator 1500 includes a frame 1540 with an upperpiece 1570 and a lower piece 1572. Each of the pieces 1570, 1572 has amirrored surface so that light may reflect off of the surface of thepieces 1570, 1572, permitting visualization of the placement of theeyelashes below the upper piece 1570. The reflection of the image fromthe surface of the upper piece 1570 may be further reflected off of thelower piece 1572, and on to a separate mirror facing the user, as isillustrated in FIG. 15B.

The upper piece 1570 may also serve as a holder for an eyelash extensionsystem, as may the lower piece 1572. Alternatively, the backbone may besuspended between the pieces 1570, 1572 as illustrated in FIGS. 9A and9B. It will be recognized that if the backbone of an eyelash extensionsystem is to be disposed on either of the pieces 1570, 1572 or betweenthe pieces 1570, 1572, then it may advantageous for the backbone to bemade of a transparent material.

The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood asbeing strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead,unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean boththe recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding thatvalue. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to mean“about 40 mm”

All documents cited in the Detailed Description of the Invention are, inrelevant part, incorporated herein by reference; the citation of anydocument is not to be construed as an admission that it is prior artwith respect to the present invention. To the extent that any meaning ordefinition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning ordefinition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, themeaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shallgovern.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have beenillustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in theart that various other changes and modifications can be made withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is thereforeintended to cover in the appended claims all such changes andmodifications that are within the scope of this invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. An applicator for use with an eyelash extensionsystem comprising a backbone having a backbone surface, a plurality ofeyelash extensions attached to the backbone and depending therefrom, aclosure having a closure surface facing the backbone surface andconfigured to be joined thereto, the applicator comprising: a framehaving a first end and a second end spaced laterally from the first end;a rail attached to the frame and extending laterally between the firstand second ends; and a cam comprising a cam surface, the cam surfacebeing configured to contact the backbone when the applicator is usedwith the eyelash extension system, the cam being movably joined to therail such that the cam can be moved along the rail from the first end tothe second end thereby causing the cam surface to urge the backbone tocome into contact with the closure.
 2. An applicator for use with aneyelash extension system comprising a backbone having first and secondbackbone ends and a backbone surface extending between the first andsecond backbone ends, a plurality of eyelash extensions attached to thebackbone and depending therefrom, and a closure having first and secondclosure ends and a closure surface extending between the first andsecond closure ends, wherein the first closure end is attached to thefirst backbone end, the applicator comprising: a frame having a holderwith a first holder end and a second holder end spaced laterallytherefrom; and a wedge with an open point in communication with aninterior space, the wedge being moveably mounted to the frame between afirst position wherein the open point is aligned with the first holderend and a second position wherein the open point is aligned with thesecond holder end.